Math resources for electrical engineering?

Question

I am considering electrical engineering as my field of study.

However, my math knowledge might not be as good as it should be.

What math books/resources would you recommend me to read?

Answer 1

In general, most electrical engineering (undergraduate) programs require the following math courses (these are in highest need to lowest need and they are the applied, as opposed to theoretical, level).

Note, "Pre-Calculus" topics such as exponents, logs, graphs of rational functions, etc. In addition, consider brushing up on your algebra skills, if needed. Algebra seems to be the bane for many in Calculus. You might need to brush up on those.

• Calculus (several semesters)

• Differential equations

• Probability and Statistics

• Linear Algebra

However, I would suggest looking at the college you are considering and find out their specifics as there could be differences.

Also, at the graduate level, there are, of course more math courses at a much higher level.

Book Recommendations

Pre-Calculus:

• Precalculus Mathematics in a Nutshell: Geometry, Algebra, Trigonometry, George F. Simmons

• Pre-calculus Demystified 2/E, Rhonda Huettenmueller

Calculus

• Book Reference for Calculus and Linear Algebra :: Engineer

• Which calculus text should I use for self-study?

Linear Algebra

• Book Reference for Calculus and Linear Algebra :: Engineer

Probability and Statistics

• Great Book on Probability and Statistics (for Computer Scientists)

Free Resources

• http://www.mathbuntu.org/

• Open Course Ware (search Google, for example MIT)

• Khan Academy

• Learn a Computer Algebra System

Answer 2

Basic electrical engineering, like most other engineering diciplines, depends on both calculus (differential equations describing electrical ciruit elements) and linear algebra.

Another very important aspect of electrical engineering, especially in signal processing (e.g analysis and filtering of audio signals) relies on basic complex analysis. Key concepts are integral transforms such as the Laplace and Fourier transforms (which are closely related). These transforms allow us to look at the spectral content of a time varying signal, in other words a signals frequency content.

If you have basic knowledge of calculus, have a look at Advanced Engineering Mathematics by Erwin Kreyzig.